Many times in the past 12 months we’ve reported on the problems in the gulf port of Karumba – a critical hub for Northern Australia and cattle transport.
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Yet you wouldn’t think so from the lack of action from governments of all stripe to secure the future of the port.
Dredging of the port used to be done by Century Mines but new owners Century Bull will only make vague promises to “work in partnership” with other stakeholders. Port owner Ports North have ludicrously suggested ships can come in and out on the tide, but in a business where time is money, waiting six hours for the right tide is a costly business.
The Palaszczuk government’s response has been piecemeal, re-assigning a dredger last year from Weipa but refusing to accept any responsibility for a long-term solution.
Meanwhile the Turnbull government prefers to spend billions propping up dodgy Indian coal miners who will suck our land dry of water, wreck the Barrier Reef and exacerbate global warming and all for a number of jobs that even Adani have admitted in court is grossly exaggerated.
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There’s plenty on in the North West this Easter weekend. Up in the Gulf you have a choice of fishing competitions with the barra biting at Burketown and Normanton.
Over at Yelvertoft the annual rodeo and campdraft kicks off on Good Friday.
Down at Boulia there is racing on Saturday while their rodeo kicks off on Sunday afternoon after Yelvertoft finishes.
Many people will also take advantage of the slightly cooler but still lovely conditions to go camping in our wonderful (out)back yard. Whatever you are doing, please make sure you are driving safely.
Sometimes people are in a hurry and take unnecessary risks on the road – and perhaps there is a good argument for Queensland to introduce double demerit points in holiday seasons, just as a reminder to slow down – but there really is no excuse not to drive according to the local conditions.
Times like Easter remind us of the importance of family. Nothing is worse at these times of reading another horror story of families torn apart by tragic and needless loss of life on the road. Please take care out there and have a safe and peaceful Easter. DB